Water power is the oldest and most highly developed form of renewable energy. Three thousand years ago, our ancestors used water wheels to grind corn and move water in irrigation ditches.
 
These wooden water wheels were the precursors of today’s large hydroelectric facilities, which work on simple principles. Hydroelectricity is produced when rushing water from a river turns turbines that generate electricity.
 

Schematic of how run-of-river hydro works at the Pingston Creek Hydroelectric Project

n Alberta, low-impact or “run-of-river” hydro is usually integrated into irrigation drop structures. The benefits of this technology include minimal storage of water and flooding, and protection of fish, wildlife and cultural resources.

To learn more about our hydro plants, please visit Hydro Power Plants.